What is the National Game of India?

A recent RTI has revealed that India has no national game. Earlier, field hockey enjoyed the special status. But, how can we, a country of more than a billion people, stay without a national game.

A recent RTI has revealed that India has no national game. Earlier, field hockey (a sport India won eight Olympic gold medals) enjoyed the special status. But, how can we, a country of more than a billion people, stay without a national game.

After the sudden disclosure, Indian sports have lost a bit of identity as a national sport is considered to be an intrinsic part of the culture of a nation. The reason for the 'no national game' status can be attributed to the downslide of Indian hockey in the last three decades. The abysmal status of management of hockey affairs strengthens the relegation of the game from the coveted status.

If we have a quick look at the current performance of India in some sports and the future ahead we can surely find some strong contenders for the national game status. Let us check some options:

Cricket: It is easily the most popular sport. In fact cricket can easily be termed as a religion in India. Backed by some very recent glories, cricket deserves to be the national sport of India on merit. The future too looks bright as the game is managed by some skilful administrators, and backed by the richest cricket board in the world.

Kabaddi: India has been the undisputed king of indigenous game Kabaddi. The game is not only rooted here, it is also the most popular game in rural areas across India.

Wrestling: We call it kusti or malla-yuddha. Wrestling has been an indigenous sport since mythological days. With past glory and recent good show at the world stage, the game deserves more respect and admiration.

Tennis: It is one rising sport in the country. With Indian tennis achieving new heights in the last couple of decades, and rapid development of the budding talents, the game is all set to flourish in the next few years. However, the recent selection fiasco ahead of the London Olympics and the subsequent events show the darker side of tennis management in India.

Boxing: After enthralling the country with medals at two consecutive Olympics, Boxing looks quite a fruitful sport for India. The country's new-found love for the game makes it one of the most popular sports. It is a popular sport even in the rural belt.

Badminton: It is said that Badminton originated in India. However, the game has captured the imagination of one and all only after Saina Nehwal's Olympic bronze medal winning feat. With the present and future looking bright, Indian badminton has the promise of more glory ahead.

Now tell us what you think. Which of these sports should be the national game of India. Write in your comments along with your choice.